"It also allows jobseekers to give something back to the taxpayers and community that supports them," Mr Hartsuyker said on Sunday.

Work for the dole now applies to jobseekers aged up to 30, who have been out of work for a year, in 18 locations of high unemployment around the country. They have to work 15 hours a week for six months to receive welfare payments.

The expanded scheme is part of a new employment services model to be announced by Mr Hartsuyker and Employment Minister Eric Abetz on Monday.

Though some aspects will come under legislation, it's understood the new work for the dole rules could still be implemented if the Senate rejects them.

The Australian Greens said there was nothing to prove work for the dole was effective.

It failed to address barriers to employment such as lack of available jobs and training or discrimination.

"This announcement is all about punishing people," Greens family and community spokeswoman Rachel Siewert said on Sunday.

"If jobs aren't available, it is nonsense to say people have to apply for at least a job a day."